Two out of three Hong Kongers continue to suffer from long COVID

Manulife launched a charity program to help people still suffering from it.

Two out of three Hong Kongers who were afflicted with COVID-19 also suffered from long COVID, a survey by Manulife Hong Kong revealed.

The most common long COVID effects include respiratory, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms, which may result in a lengthy treatment period, causing a loss of income and a heavy financial burden for vulnerable families.

To help underserved families suffering from long COVID, Manulife launched the Manulife Health Voucher Program – COVID Recovery in partnership with Christian Family Service Centre (CFSC).

Starting from November 21, 2022, the Program will provide up to 1,000 sessions of free healthcare services to eligible underprivileged beneficiaries between the ages of 6 and 80 who were diagnosed with COVID-19 and are experiencing long COVID symptoms. Priority will be given to those living in subdivided units and small flats in districts such as Kwun Tong, Lei Yue Mun, Sham Shui Po, Shatin, Tin Shui Wai, Tsuen Kwai Tsing, and Wong Tai Sin.

The comprehensive health services provided by the Program are designed to help prevent the worsening of long COVID and help people build their resilience. Services include Western medical consultation, Chinese medicine consultation and prescription, nutrition consultation, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and acupuncture. These services are provided through CFSC and four other charitable organizations: Asbury Methodist Social Service, Free Methodist Church of Hong Kong-Social Service Division, Hong Kong Single Parents Association, and Society for Community

The Program builds on Manulife’s earlier partnerships with the CFSC via the “Manulife Health Voucher Program” launched in 2021 as well as the “Manulife Health Resilience Program for the Elderly” which was launched in May this year. As of today, over 2,100 free consultations have been provided to low-income families, elderly singles and couples with limited family support, and those with mobility problems from five under-resourced districts.